ab|sagen
Translation
to cancel, to call off, to decline
Examples
Ich muss den Termin leider absagen.
Unfortunately, I have to cancel the appointment.
Sie hat die Einladung abgesagt.
She declined the invitation.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) absagen to cancel (sth.) I have to cancel the appointment.
((sb.)) absagen to turn (sb.) down Unfortunately, she turned him down.
Similar Words
Synonyms: stornieren, annullieren; Antonym: zusagen
Etymology
From 'ab-' (off, away) and 'sagen' (to say). Literally means 'to say off'.
Memory Tips
Imagine 'saying' that an event is now 'off' the calendar.